How to Wow returns

Seminar to discuss ideas for building rehabilitation

August 7, 2012

The city of Webster City and the Chamber of Commerce are sponsoring a "From How to Wow" seminar entitled "How to Preserve Webster City."

The seminar will be held on Aug. 29, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church. Cost of this seminar is $10 payable to the Chamber of Commerce. The fee includes a lunch. RSVP to the Chamber office, 832-2564, by Aug. 24.

Chamber and city officials said the downtown is integral to the economic health of Webster City because its condition, whether perceived or actual, plays a large part in the impression people have of our community. The deterioration of buildings creates an image of a deteriorating community economic base and a lack of pride on the part of our citizens. As a result, potential businesses could be discouraged from locating in Webster City and a negative image could develop.

The most cost-effective means for enhancement is the preservation of a building's original architectural features, officials said. Over the years, a number of buildings have been altered or improperly maintained which, in some cases, have caused additional deterioration of the building itself.

With neglected and deteriorating buildings throughout the community, an idea was conceived to put together a program to assist property owners and interested masonry and general contractors on how to repair and rehab such buildings. If a building is not in disrepair at this time, suggestions will be given as to how to maintain the building so the structural integrity is never compromised, according to officials.

With the assistance of James Tometich, Tometich Engineering Inc., in Urbandale, and John Koester with Preservation Partner in Grimes, local property and business owners and contractors will learn about building repairs that will prolong the integrity of buildings; financial incentives available; and the economic results from rehabilitation.